WHITE STONE—On Tuesday morning, November 24, 2020, Carl M. Smith, 71, was taken from us far too soon. We are heartbroken to say goodbye to a man we deeply loved, respected, and cherished.

He was so much more than a UVA and Georgetown Law graduate, Navy fighter pilot, Chief of Staff for the Senate Armed Services Committee, fierce lawyer, and ardent leader of the Save the Rappahannock Coalition.  He was a loving husband, loyal brother, devoted father and doting grandfather.

He was a matter-of-fact believer in God, the arbiter of all family matters, and the peacekeeper of sibling debates. He was the rock of our family, the pillar of every group to which he belonged.

At each stage of life, he taught us by example what mattered most: how to forge a path we could take pride in, treat others with respect, and savor every morsel of existence. The command he carried into a room was surpassed only by the laughter and levity that followed his arrival.

We have never met—nor will ever meet—a person more kind, attentive, and dedicated to those around him. No one loved family, friends, life, and adventure more than he.

On December 9, he was laid to rest in a private family ceremony. There will be a Celebration of Life later next year when everyone can gather safely to honor Carl and share stories of his life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Carl’s church, Light of Christ in Heathsville.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy; daughter, Kristen Fredericks (Derek); son, Bryant Smith; grandson, Brooks; and sisters, Carol Nelson (John) and Joan Templer (Jerry). They would cherish any stories or pictures of Carl you would like to offer in the wake of his passing.

Currie Funeral Home LLC of Kilmarnock handled the arrangements.

https://rrecord.com/carl-macon-smith-jr/